British Land has launched 158,000 sq ft of flexible workspace called The Grand Press at the iconic Printworks site in Canada Water.
The developer and joint venture partner AustralianSuper have appointed Hawkins\Brown architects to reposition Harmsworth Quays, which was once Europe’s largest printing facility, into an office-led, mixed-use facility “inspired by the past, designed for the future”.
Subject to planning permission, The Grand Press will also be home to a “unique cultural venue” in the heart of Canada Water.
The seven-storey scheme will provide more than 10,000 sq ft of external terraces on the third to sixth floors offering “panoramic views across London, presenting a workspace experience like no other”.
The Grand Press will also offer a wide range of retail and F&B outlets on the ground floor, with the possibility of creating a rooftop amenity space.
Roger Madelin, joint head of Canada Water at British Land, said: “The Printworks building is one of the many gems within the Canada Water masterplan; we have taken inspiration from its heritage to design a state-of-the art complex that pays homage to the asset’s evolution over the past three decades and offers a compelling blend of modern workspace, cultural experiences and leisure activities, fostering collaboration and creativity.
“We were keen to capture the extraordinary character and volume of this building through our ambitious retrofit programme, ensuring a long term and sustainable future for the reinvented Printworks which fully embraces its multi-layered potential.”
Mike Wiseman, head of office leasing at British Land, added: “The Grand Press will be one of the most exciting workspace schemes ever launched to the London market – a once-in-a-lifetime, globally unique opportunity for any forward-thinking business that uses workspace as a key representation of its own brand and its relationship with its employees.
“The iconic building complements the wider commercial offering that will be delivered across the Canada Water masterplan, promoting a hive of business activity in this pocket of central London where occupiers will benefit from exceptional transport links, extensive food and retail options, and an abundance of surrounding green and blue spaces.”
The redevelopment forms part of the second phase of the Canada Water masterplan, with practical completion expected in Q3 2026.
